Analysis of Surgical Masks Adverse Effects on Facial Skin in Long Term Usage During COVID-19 Pandemic.

Objectives: During the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic, masks have become mandatory for protection against the virus transmitted by breathing. This study examined the impact of surgical masks used daily on civilian facial skin. Materials and Methods: Moisture, elasticity, pore, melanin, acne, wrinkle, and sensitivity parameters of 83 volunteers were measured numerically using an API-100 skin analyzer and camera recordings. Numerical values were compared following the device's algorithm calibrated according to age, gender, and race. Finally, the obtained data were statistically evaluated and compared with the averages. Results: Pore, melanin, acne, and wrinkle parameters were higher without gender discrimination, whereas moisture and elasticity parameters were low. While a significant increase was observed in women for sensitivity, the increase was not statistically significant in men. Conclusion: The negative effects of long-term daily wearing of surgical masks on facial skin were statistically significant. Therefore, taking outdoor breaks during mask use, washing the face intermittently, using moisturizing and purifying cosmetic products, and anti-wrinkle effects have been proposed to reduce the possible defects.

Thermoreversible Gel Formulation for the Intranasal Delivery of Salmon Calcitonin and Comparison Studies of In Vivo Bioavailability.

Objectives: We developed original thermoreversible (sol-gel) formulations of salmon calcitonin (sCT) for nasal applications. The sol-gel has been compared with commercial intranasal sprays in vitro and in vivo studies. The aim of studying sol-gel form is to arrange the viscosity of formulations for a reversible adequate fluidity at different temperatures. This situation may facilitate the use of drugs as sprays and increase the bioadhesive ability to mucosa. Materials and Methods: Characterization of optimum formulations was studied. Validated analytical assays determined the number of sCT. An approximately equal number of commercial and sol-gel dosages were sprayed into the nostrils of the rabbits. Blood samples were collected from the ear veins of rabbits and determined by enzyme immunoassay plates. These plates were evaluated by Thermo Labsystem Multiscan Spectrum at 450 nm. Thanks to Winnonlin 5.2, pharmacokinetic data were evaluated by a non-compartmental method. Results: The absolute bioavailability of the formulation at pH 4 and the commercial product (CP) was compared by evaluating the primary pharmacokinetic data area under the curve 0→tlast. The absolute bioavailability of the commercial intranasal spray was measured 1.88 based on maximum concentration (Cmax) assessment. Cmax of the sol-gel formulation pH 4 was calculated as 0.99 and the relative bioavailability was obtained 53.3%. Conclusion: In vivo pharmacokinetic data of sol-gel formulation with pH 3 showed significantly higher volume of distribution parameter than the CP (111167>35408). It is thought that the formulation adhered to the nasal mucosa releases sCT slowly and less.